Top Things to do in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
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What to do and see in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Ireland's Hidden Heartlands: The Best Islands
Discover the best top things to do in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Ireland including Inishbofin, Scattery Island, Saints Island, Omey Island, Inis Meain, Mutton Island.
Restaurants in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
1. Inishbofin
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 49 reviews
This tiny rustic island has become increasingly popular among tourists in recent years.
Reviewed By rebeccaruva - New York City, United States
Inishbofin is a beautiful island just off the coast of County Galway. There is a lovely hike around the island and the people there are simply wonderful. With picturesque beaches, views of both County Galway and the Atlantic Ocean, and stunning cliffs on the west side of the island - Inishbofin is great for a day trip or a few days stay. I stayed at the Hostel on the island with a friend, and the women who ran the place was very nice and accommodating. The hike around the island has stunning views. On the North-West side of the island there is a blowhole that is a treat to see. On the East side of the island there is a lovely walk around the beaches and fields. There are also some small tide pools on East End Beach and cool places to explore. Inishbofin is easy to get to from Galway on public transportation. If you need to get to Galway from any other major city in Ireland, you can use Bus Eireann or other bus companies for an easy trip. From Galway, you should take a CityLink bus to Cleggan, which is where you will pick up the ferry to the island. For a day trip, it would be easiest to get to the island on the morning ferry and take the last ferry out in the late afternoon. You should double check the Inishbofin ferry site for the latest schedule depending on the time of year you are going to Inishbofin. (BE WARNED, if you take the last ferry out and catch the CityLink bus into Galway, and expect to catch the last buses out of Galway (ex. Bus Eireann to Limerick or Shannon Airport) you will most likely NOT make these buses. Expect to spend the night in Galway or catch the midday ferry so you do not have any chance of missing your bus.)
2. Scattery Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 405 reviews
Scattery Island Tours offers a daily ferry service to Scattery Island, at the heart of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Scattery offers a unique Cultural & Heritage experience for visitors with a range of Monasitc & Heritage sites. Scattery Island is an EDEN award winner for Sustainable & Cultural Tourism. Sailings depart from Kilrush Marina in Co. Clare May to Sept. Guided Walking Tour included.
Reviewed By blackcatw13 - London, United Kingdom
Great trip would recommend wearing boots as trails muddy and slippery, also have to cross a stream to get to the lighthouse. Guides more than knowledgeable on the history
3. Saints Island
4. Omey Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By Galwaywalks - Galway, Ireland
Omey island is a tidal island in Connemara, connected to the mainland by an amazing beach that's maybe a square mile in area, and that is the scene for an annual horse race meeting, on the last Sunday in July. If you like horse racing...and beaches, and fun and fresh air and amazing scenery, this is the place to be. If you just like coastal scenery and exploring, history and building sandcastles, then go visit Omey island... just don't get caught by the tide, otherwise you are stuck for five hours... at least bring sandwiches...hey, always time for a picnic on the wild Atlantic way. We were there yesterday, in a light misty rain, it was pure magic... a salve for the soul. The island is an easy two hour visit.. steeped in ancient history and bathed in Atlantic sun and rain... like I say, magical. Just 90 minutes west of Galway..15 minutes from Clifden and Renvyle. Great for kids and adults... and dogs and horses.
